New Music Friday - 2/3/2023

February brings two amazing releases from artists that stretch the boundaries and mesmerize with their sound and vision.

Albums of the Week:

Heavy Heavy by Young Fathers

The fourth album from the Scottish trio is one of the most inventive and clever releases I’ve heard in the last few years. They blend soul, pop, rock and so many other styles so well and their songs take you on a trip. The lo-fi yet frenetic feel of the opener “Rice” kicks things off just right. “Geronimo” floats like a needle on vinyl wax with reverb galore. Other favorites include “Shoot Me Down” and “Sink Or Swim”. Heavy Heavy is full of passion and soul and should easily fit into my top music of 2023.

My 21st Century Blues by RAYE

After nasty fights with her old record company and a number of singles being released, RAYE releases her debut full-length album and it’s worth the wait. An outspoken singer, RAYE touches on anxiety, sexual assault and frankly, there’s no holding her back. “Hard Out Here” is a funky slam at the record label/music biz that is anthemic. She’s able to change courses musically with the bluesy “Mary Jane”, a seductive, sexy-ass jam. The biggest hit so far is the international smash “Escapism” with its sung-spoke lyrics recapping a crazy night out. Other favorites include “The Thrill Is Gone” and “Environmental Anxiety”. Throw the album on for a weekend jam!